In a chilling development from Anambra State, a 24-year-old man identified as Muanaenye Chekwube Victor has been arrested by police for masterminding the kidnapping of his own friend and collecting a ransom worth N5.3 million with the help of his gang.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga. According to the statement, the arrest was made on June 26, 2025, by operatives attached to the Uli Divisional Police Headquarters.
Ikenga revealed that the suspect orchestrated the plot by luring his unsuspecting friend under the pretense of meeting another friend. Once isolated, the victim was seized by Victor’s criminal gang. In a shocking twist, Victor pretended to be kidnapped as well, in a bid to avoid suspicion.
"The case under investigation revealed that the suspect planned the kidnapping and collected a ransom in dollars equivalent to N5.3m with his gang members before the victim was released," Ikenga stated.
The suspect has since confessed to the crime and is currently cooperating with police to track down the remaining members of the gang. Authorities have assured that Victor will face prosecution once the investigation concludes.
In a separate incident, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu arrested 10 suspects linked to the kidnap and death of an elder statesman in Nimo. The victim had been abducted from his farm on June 23. Despite the payment of a N15 million ransom, his lifeless body was later discovered near a piggery farm.
Ikenga noted that all suspects are undergoing intense interrogation. “Further development would be communicated,” he added, assuring the public that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, is committed to justice.
The police have reiterated their commitment to securing Anambra and preventing a recurrence of such violent crimes. Residents have been encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
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